Labour Stuns SNP with Massive By-Election Blow in Rutherglen & Hamilton West
In a shock result, Labour roared back to claim victory in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election, smashing the SNP with a colossal 20.4% swing. The voters have spoken loud and clear, demanding a major political shake-up.
Michael Shanks Smashes It with Over 17,800 Votes
Labour’s Michael Shanks bagged an impressive 17,845 votes—more than twice the tally of SNP’s Katy Loudon. Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer called it “a seismic moment,” celebrating a clear mandate for change from the electorate.
Other Candidates Flop as SNP Faces Heavy Defeat
- Scottish Conservatives’ Thomas Kerr managed just 1,192 votes, losing his deposit.
- Independent Garry Cooke scraped a meagre 6 votes.
- SNP admitted it was a tough night at the polls.
The by-election followed the ousting of former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier for breaking Covid rules. Turnout slumped to 37.19%, well down on 2019’s general election figures.
Tory Thomas Kerr Blames Tactical Voting, Vows to Bounce Back
Disappointed Tory candidate Thomas Kerr blamed tactical voting for the Conservative slump and losing his deposit. Yet Kerr remains hopeful, confident his party will reclaim voters in future contests.
